About
Vildagliptin/Metformin is a fixed-dose combination medication used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Vildagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that enhances the body's natural ability to control blood glucose by increasing the levels of active incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP). These hormones stimulate insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and suppress glucagon secretion from alpha cells, particularly in a glucose-dependent manner.
Metformin, a biguanide, primarily reduces hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. The synergistic action of these two agents provides comprehensive glycemic control, addressing multiple pathophysiological defects in type 2 diabetes. This combination is typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone, or metformin monotherapy, do not achieve adequate glycemic targets.
Uses
- To improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- As an adjunct to diet and exercise when metformin alone is insufficient.
- As initial therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes when dual therapy is appropriate.
- In combination with other antidiabetic agents, including insulin, when current therapy does not provide adequate control.
Directions For Use
Take orally, usually twice daily with meals, to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Swallow tablets whole with water.
Benefits
- Provides dual mechanism for effective glucose lowering.
- Reduces both fasting and post-meal blood glucose.
- Generally associated with a low risk of hypoglycemia.
- Metformin component can lead to modest weight loss.
- Improves insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta-cell function.
- Convenient fixed-dose combination for improved adherence.
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Tremor
- Fatigue
- Hypoglycemia (especially with other agents)
- Lactic acidosis (rare, with metformin)
- Vitamin B12 deficiency (long-term metformin use)
Safety Measures
- Alcohol - Avoid excessive alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis (a rare but serious side effect of metformin) and hypoglycemia.
- Pregnancy - Not recommended during pregnancy. Insulin is generally preferred for glycemic control in pregnant women with diabetes. Consult a doctor.
- Breastfeeding - Not recommended during breastfeeding as both components may pass into breast milk. Potential risks to the infant are unknown.
- Liver - Contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment due to increased risk of lactic acidosis with metformin. Use with caution in moderate impairment.
- Kidney - Contraindicated in severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²) due to metformin accumulation and increased risk of lactic acidosis. Dose adjustment needed for moderate impairment.
- Lung - Use with caution in conditions causing hypoxia (e.g., severe respiratory failure) as it may increase the risk of lactic acidosis.
Disclaimer
MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.
Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.
| Shipping Cost |
|
| Shop Location | Assam, India |
No comments found for this product. Be the first to comment!